RACHAEL RAY 'I've Always Beén My True Self'

Culinary icon Rachael Ray dishes on finding silver linings, enjoying a delicious life in Tuscany and her latest projects, with Us

- LEANNE ACIZ STANTON

"For me, feeding someone is how I express love," Ray shares.

Food for thought: You don't build a decades-spanning career by putting on airs just ask Rachael Ray. Ever since the early aughts, the TV personality grew her fan base by sharing time-saving tips, cooking hacks and tasty recipes, but what continues to win people over is her authenticity. "I've always been my true self on TV, whether in front of a studio audience or on the Food Network when I was alone on a set talking to my vegetables," Ray, 56, tells Us. Her approach is still paying off: Not only is she hosting Rachael Ray's Holidays airing Sundays at 10 A.M. on A&E and produced by her Free Food Studios - but she's also launched a new podcast. Despite having a full plate (and splitting -her time between the States and her dream home in Italy!), the businesswoman is committed to proving that if she can do it, so can you. “I’ve always said, ‘Anyone can be a Rachael Ray,’ and I truly believe that,” she adds. “I’m just a cook from upstate New York.” Here, Ray tells Us more about her career, marriage and everything else in between.

’Tis the season! How do you usually spend this festive time of year?